Bilingual International Assistant Services
Katrina Fairbanks Orlet LCSW is a seasoned social work professional with extensive experience in various roles. Since November 2016, Katrina has operated a private practice providing social work services, including consultation on social service administration, staff development, and client engagement training. Concurrently, Katrina serves as the Director of Mental Health and Mental Health Therapist at Bilingual International Assistant Services, overseeing behavioral health services for immigrants and refugees and managing clinical case management and counseling. Previously, Katrina worked as a Family Development Specialist at FamilyForward, an Outpatient Clinical Manager and Therapist at St. Anthony's Medical Center, and held positions at the Missouri Department of Social Services and Fundación Amanecer. Katrina holds a Master of Social Work degree focused on Children, Youth, and Families from the University of Washington and a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Saint Louis University.
Bilingual International Assistant Services
Bilingual International Assistant Services is a not-for-profit 501 (C) (3) organization established in May, 2002 by stateless refugee women. Bilingual International was founded as a response to the unmet needs of foreign-born seniors who had limited ability in the English language, were unable to navigate the intricate system of care, and often voiced fear over their future and livelihood. In 2005, the agency began serving US-born older adults, who, despite knowledge of English, lacked knowledge of the system of care and resources. Poverty stricken, isolated seniors who were also home bound and frail sought our services to help them improve their living situations, overcome anxieties, and increase their ability to maintain community living. In 2016, Bilingual International welcomed two long-time partner agencies: the Center for Survivors of Torture and War Trauma and the Places for People Faith Team. These recent additions have enhanced the agency’s service portfolio – especially to refugees and survivors of state-sanctioned torture. Free of negative bias, we advocate for and encourage legislation that promotes statewide accessible, appropriate health and social services for under-served individuals and populations. Through our services and proven track record, we not only live our mission – we go beyond expectations to help our elderly and foreign-born communities.